Maronite Patriarch Meets Jordanian Tourism Minister to Confirm Church’s Participation in 2030 Jordan River Baptism Celebration

The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan met with Dr. Imad Hijazin, the Maronite Patriarch of Cardinal Marbar Peters Shepherd, at the Patriarchal edifice in Baraki. The meeting took place in the presence of the Lebanese Minister of Tourism, Laura Al Khazan Lahod. The discussion centered on the Maronite Church’s role in the 2030 celebration marking the 2,000th anniversary of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. The Patriarch emphasized the church’s commitment to participating in the event, highlighting its religious, spiritual, and cultural significance.

Hijazin conveyed greetings from King Abdullah II of Jordan to the Patriarch, expressing the monarch’s hopes for the Patriarch’s continued health and ability to spread the message of love, peace, and dialogue. The meeting also reviewed Jordan’s preparations for the 2030 celebration, which aligns with the country’s vision of Christianity’s early dawn. Jordan is working to showcase over 34 Christian sites through an integrated visitor experience, emphasizing their religious and historical importance.

During his visit to Lebanon, the Minister of Tourism highlighted the country’s efforts to present its spiritual and cultural heritage. He noted that Jordan is collaborating with Lebanon to promote shared religious and historical sites, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s Christian legacy. The exchange underscored the importance of interfaith cooperation and the preservation of heritage sites for future generations.

The Maronite Patriarch’s participation in the 2030 celebration reflects the church’s active role in global Christian commemorations. The church’s engagement with Jordan and Lebanon exemplifies its commitment to preserving and promoting Christian heritage across the Middle East. Such collaborations strengthen the bonds between Eastern Catholic churches and the broader Christian community.

The meeting also touched on the potential for increased tourism and cultural exchange between Jordan and Lebanon. By highlighting shared religious sites, both nations aim to enhance their international profiles and attract visitors interested in Christian history and spirituality. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote peace and mutual understanding through shared heritage.

The collaboration between the Maronite Patriarch and Jordan’s Minister of Tourism underscores the church’s role in fostering interfaith dialogue and cultural preservation. As preparations for the 2030 celebration progress, the Maronite Church’s involvement highlights its dedication to honoring the spiritual and historical significance of Christian traditions. This partnership reflects a shared vision of unity and cooperation in the Christian community.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)